HSBC set a new record low rate today but a top mortgage adviser doesn’t expect more rate drops to follow.

Mortgage Express, the financial services arm of Harcourts NZ, has appointed Sarah Johnston to the role of CEO for the company’s New Zealand operations.

Johnston has been with Mortgage Express since 2004 and was previously the financial advisory company’s general manager.

In her new role, Johnston says she wants Mortgage Express to be seen as the premier financial advisory company in the country.

“I’d like to make sure the public view us as the most professional, and the most trusted advisory company in our industry. I want our name to mean something,” she says.

“I want to really promote the idea that Mortgage Express is a full service operation. Our clients can keep returning to us as their financial requirements change, throughout their lives and we will be able to deliver on their needs with professional excellence.”

Mortgage Express’ partnership with Harcourts, New Zealand’s largest real estate group, is also a key aspect of its success, Johnston says. “We’re really proud of that relationship. Not only does it give us an extensive presence across the country, it means we can be right there to help people make their dreams come true.”

Mortgage Express international CEO Marcus Williams says under Sarah’s tenure as general manager the company has gone from strength to strength, to become one of New Zealand’s largest financial advisory firms. “We are delighted to confirm her appointment as CEO for New Zealand in recognition of her excellent work in growing Mortgage Express.

“We are extremely proud of the company’s achievements and looking forward to even greater things in the future.”